Premier League Predictions: Weekly odds & expert betting tips

The Premier League returns from the October international break with a pair of Manchester versus Merseyside clashes and a couple of London derbies. 

NEW: EFL Championship weekly betting tips, outright winner odds and match odds

We’ve got AI-driven match predictions powered by statz.ai, as well as expert value picks from Andrew Beasley for each game. This page will be updated weekly with the new selections so bookmark it so you don’t miss out. 

Want more? Get live Premier League match odds and bookmaker welcome bonuses

Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea betting tips

When: Saturday 18th October, 12:30pm

Where to watch: TNT Sports

Nottingham Forest’s matches under Ange Postecoglou have broadly fallen into two groups: low scoring in the league, goals galore in Europe. Against a Chelsea side that is struggling to put a defence together given a lengthy injury list, we can expect an entertaining lunchtime on Saturday. 

The visitors should still win though, as you can see from the data prediction. Chelsea have taken seven points from their three most recent trips to the City Ground. Postecoglou’s misfiring side look incapable of changing that trend this weekend. 

FIRST.com’s expert Premier League predictions

Chelsea win (10/11 with Coral)

Over 3.5 goals (8/5 with Mr.Play)

Both teams to score: Yes (4/6 with Highbet)

Brighton vs Newcastle betting tips

When: Saturday 18th October, 3pm

Where to watch: N/A

This feels like a battle between chaos and sanity. Both teams have scored in Brighton’s last five league games, with four of the matches seeing at least three goals. The data prediction is for that run to continue. 

But then there’s Newcastle, whose three away matches have all ended 0-0. The Magpies on the road are an advert for watching paint dry. It’s not like they’ve been much more incisive at home either, with just two open play goals. With Brighton erratic in front of goal for years, don’t expect too many to be scored against the Geordie wall. 

FIRST.com’s expert Premier League predictions

Under 2.5 goals (19/20 with Betway)

Draw (13/5 with Matchbook)

Both teams to score: No (23/20 with Bet442)

Burnley vs Leeds betting tips

When: Saturday 18th October, 3pm

Where to watch: N/A

These two former Championship clubs shared a solitary goal in their two second tier meetings last season. As it came in the 18th minute of the first game, they’re goalless against each other for over two-and-a-half hours.

This may not be quite so tight, with the data projecting 2.64 goals. However, the form of the two sides suggests it’s hard to foresee too many goals. Each of Burnley’s three home games this season saw a maximum of two, plus they are overachieving against their expected goals so are due a dip. 

FIRST.com’s expert Premier League predictions

Both teams to score: no (10/11 with Betfred)

Under 2 goals (23/20 with 7bet)

Over 4.5 cards (23/20 with Betway)

Crystal Palace vs Bournemouth betting tips

When: Saturday 18th October, 3pm

Where to watch: N/A

Crystal Palace versus Bournemouth doesn’t have the ring of a top six clash yet that’s exactly what it is this weekend. They’re both in good form too – the Eagles lost what was a club record unbeaten run last time out, while the Cherries are six without defeat in the Premier League, the longest such streak at present.

Matches between these teams are usually fiery, with 30 yellow cards and two reds across the previous six meetings at Selhurst Park. The statz.ai data projects 4.27 cards but the head-to-head history points towards aiming higher. 

FIRST.com’s expert Premier League predictions

Over 4.5 cards (Evens with Spreadex)

Crystal Palace win (Evens with Kwiff)

Over 2.5 goals (17/20 with MrLuck)

Manchester City vs Everton betting tips

When: Saturday 18th October, 3pm

Where to watch: N/A

Back in Pep Guardiola’s first season in England, Manchester City lost 4-0 to Everton. They have responded by winning 14 and drawing three of the 17 meetings since. 

The Toffees have returned from the Etihad with a point in two of their last three visits, in fairness. But with Jack Grealish ineligible to play against his parent club, a significant part of their attack will be in the stands this weekend.

With City predicted to generate plenty of shots, expect Erling Haaland to score and the home side to win. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Manchester City win and over 2.5 goals (21/20 with 10bet)

Manchester City win to nil (11/8 with William Hill)

Erling Haaland to score first (5/2 with Ladbrokes)

Sunderland vs Wolves betting tips

When: Saturday 18th October, 3pm

Where to watch: N/A

The Statz.ai data has made a very bold claim in its match prediction for this one. Can bottom side Wolves pick up their first win of the season against a Sunderland side that is unbeaten at home?

Vitor Pereira’s side have been looking better on the road. They came within stoppage time of a win at Tottenham in their last away game, while their two defeats were both only by 1-0 score lines. 

But Sunderland are making the most of their vociferous home backing, which could prove pivotal here. The stats model and I agree that both teams are going to score.

FIRST.com’s expert Premier League predictions

Both teams to score: Yes (Evens with Coral)

Sunderland win (3/2 with Mr.Play)

Over 2.5 goals (18/11 with Matchbook)

Fulham vs Arsenal betting tips

When: Saturday 18th October, 5:30pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

Arsenal failed to win their two previous visits to Craven Cottage. While they are rightly favourites to take the points this time (both with bookmakers and the data prediction), their price to do so is a little short. They’ve yet to score an open play goal on the road in the league this term, after all.

One man who could change that is Eberechi Eze. No player in the division has had more shots in the box without scoring across the last four game weeks (10). 

In a game likely to feature few goals, the Gunners’ new boy could prove decisive. Plus,  he’ll be confident after netting for England against Latvia earlier this week. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Under 2.5 goals (10/11 with William Hill)

Eberechi Eze to score any time (13/5 with Spreadex)

Both teams to score: No (3/4 with Highbet)

Tottenham vs Aston Villa betting tips

When: Sunday 19th October, 2pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

The data is predicting at least three goals with both sides scoring. The history of this fixture is very much in favour of that, with that outcome occurring in five of the previous six north London clashes. 

What makes this game intriguing is that the teams are split on three wins each in those matches. To confuse matters further, Tottenham have earned more points on the road whereas Aston Villa have (like most teams) been better at home. 

This match also forms part of our 7/1 weekly football acca, Expect goals, but which side gets more of them is hard to say. 

FIRST.com’s expert Premier League predictions

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (23/20 with Betway)

Tottenham win (11/10 with 10bet)

Over 10.5 corners (10/11 with Ladbrokes)

Liverpool vs Manchester United betting tips

When: Sunday 19th October, 4:30pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

Three of the last four meetings of these fierce north-west rivals ended 2-2 in normal time. The odds are great if you think it will happen again. 

It can’t be ruled out, given Liverpool have conceded in four of their five Anfield games in all competitions this term, twice letting in two goals. 

READ MORE PL: Liverpool vs Manchester United betting tips, predictions and full breakdown 

Manchester United haven’t been especially potent on the road though, with League Two Grimsby the only team against whom they’ve scored more than once away from home. 

The data prediction points towards a 2-1 victory for the home team, which feels instinctively right here.

FIRST.com’s expert Premier League predictions

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (4/5 with William Hill)

Liverpool win (3/5 with 7bet)

Mohamed Salah to score anytime (11/8 with Betway)

West Ham vs Brentford betting tips

When: Monday 20th October, 8pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

Nuno Espirito Santo will take charge of his first home game of West Ham on Monday night. As much as Brentford aren’t the worst opponents for a London Stadium debut, they have a good record in this fixture.

READ MORE: Who's in the top three in our Premier League prop betting charts this week? 

The Bees have won three of the four Premier League meetings in east London, three of the last four (with one draw) on either side of the capital. They can take advantage of a restless home crowd to earn a positive result. 

FIRST.com’s expert Premier League predictions

Draw no bet: Brentford (21/20 with William Hill)

Both teams to score: Yes (4/6 with Betfred)

Under 3.5 cards (6/5 with Betway)

Previous matches

03/10/2025

Bournemouth vs Fulham betting tips

When: Friday 3rd October, 8pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

The data for our first match is pointing towards a win for Bournemouth. However, the expected goal numbers for their last two games said the same thing and they drew both times. They aren’t scoring enough to be reliable, finding the net eight times in their first six matches.

Where they have an advantage here is that they have two wins and a draw at home. Fulham’s away form has been far less impressive with just one point from three matches. Bournemouth have let us down the last two weeks but third time’s the charm, right?

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Bournemouth win (10/11 with Ladbrokes)

Bournemouth win and over 2.5 goals (39/20 with 10bet)

Under 9.5 corners (13/10 with Coral)

Leeds vs Tottenham betting tips

When: Saturday 4th October, 12:30pm

Where to watch: TNT Sports

The data predicts Tottenham will win but a closer look shows their advantage in the goal projection is just 0.22. It’s nothing.

The form book leans slightly towards Leeds too. They won at Wolves then came within stoppage time of beating Bournemouth. In their last three league and European matches, Spurs have come from behind to draw with Brighton, Wolves and Bodoe/Glimt. 

They went two goals down in the first and third of those matches and would’ve lost to Wolves without a 94th minute goal.

If Leeds can keep this tight, they can get a positive result. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Draw no bet: Leeds (Evens with Betfred)

Under 2.5 goals (9/11 with Kwiff)

Mohammed Kudus to score anytime (7/2 with Betway)

Arsenal vs West Ham betting tips

When: Saturday 4th October, 3pm

Where to watch: N/A

Arsenal are the hottest favourites this weekend. The form guide alone explains that, even without the detailed data prediction we’ve got here. 

If there is any hope for West Ham then it lies in the head-to-head record. They have won their last two visits to the Emirates Stadium, keeping a clean sheet each time. It says everything for the club that they were each under a different manager and the Hammers will have a new gaffer once again.

What to expect of the Hammers under Nuno Espirito Santo? Well they should tighten them up. His style should tilt the stats a little more in their favour than the prediction, but it’s hard to look past Arsenal winning relatively easily. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Under 2.5 goals (7/5 with 10bet)

Arsenal win to nil (4/5 with Bet442)

Handicap: Arsenal -1 (7/12 with 7bet)

Manchester United vs Sunderland betting tips

When: Saturday 4th October, 3pm

Where to watch: N/A

This is the most fascinating fixture of the weekend. The data suggests Manchester United will win. They’re hosting a side that finished last season with five straight defeats in the Championship. 

Yet only the most optimistic (or should that be deluded) of United fans will think that they’ll beat Sunderland with ease. The home side are just so unreliable. They needed a last-minute penalty to beat a Burnley team that haven’t looked as good as Sunderland this season. 

United will win in all likelihood but the prices for the Black Cats are too good not to consider. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Both teams to score: Yes (4/5 with Ladbrokes)

Double chance: Sunderland/Draw (17/10 with Betway)

Over 4.5 bookings (7/5 with 7bet)

Chelsea vs Liverpool betting tips

When: Saturday 4th October, 5:30pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

These teams have played out a few goalless draws in the last three years. However, the prediction is for plenty of goalmouth action.

READ: Chelsea vs Liverpool - big match breakdown and best value tips

There has been plenty of evidence as to why, with both sides displaying chaotic defending in recent weeks. Chelsea have had a man sent off in each of their last two league games, defeats to Manchester United and Brighton. 

Liverpool have kept a full complement of players but have been making far too many defensive errors. Even without Cole Palmer, the home side shouldn’t lack goalscoring chances.  

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (4/5 with Coral)

Liverpool win (7/5 with Matchbook)

Over 3.5 goals (13/10 with Mr.Play)

Aston Villa vs Burnley betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 2pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

It has taken longer than anyone would have expected but Aston Villa are up and running for the season. They beat Bologna 1-0 and Fulham 3-1 in their last two matches at Villa Park.

Their Europa League trip to Feyenoord on Thursday has given them less time to prepare for this match than Burnley. The Clarets’ away form has been poor, though, with three defeats by an aggregate score line of 11-3.

This will likely be closer than their 5-1 thumping at Manchester City last weekend, but not close enough for Burnley. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Aston Villa win and both teams to score (23/10 with Highbet)

Ollie Watkins to score any time (23/20 with William Hill)

Corner Handicap: Aston Villa -2 (7/10 with William Hill)

Everton vs Crystal Palace betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 2pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

Crystal Palace will hope for better results at the Hill Dickenson Stadium than they got at Goodison Park. The data predicts this game to be close, and it likely will be. The Eagles have rarely been in such good form though. 

Everton’s good start to the season has dissipated too. They are winless in four in all competitions, with a loss to Wolves (in the Carabao Cup) and draw with West Ham particularly dispiriting. 

READ MORE: Who's in the top three in our Premier League prop betting charts this week? 

As Palace are on the joint-longest unbeaten run in their history, they have had few such worries for months. That run will end but it doesn’t feel especially likely here. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Crystal Palace win (19/10 with Coral)

Over 2.5 goals (23/20 with MrLuck)

Highest scoring half: 2nd (6/5 with Betfred)

Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 2pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

This could be the feistiest game of the weekend. Nottingham Forest have collected 16 yellow cards and one red across their last six visits to St. James’ Park. The data is predicting 4.11 cards but it feels safer to go higher than lower.

Match referee Peter Bankes is among the Premier League’s most card-heavy officials. He averages four yellows per game so could easily go for more here.

The result is hard to predict. Newcastle are finding it hard to score in the league while Ange Postecoglou is struggling to get a tune out of Nottingham Forest. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Over 4.5 cards (4/5 with MrLuck)

Under 2.5 goals (21/20 with Betway)

Both teams to score: No (21/20 with Spreadex)

Wolves vs Brighton betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 2pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

Wolves came within a minute or two of a win at Tottenham last weekend. Joao Palhinha’s late equaliser leaves them with just one point. It’s going to be a long season. 

Brighton’s form has been patchy, as they have two in each of the win, draw and loss columns. Their victories have come against Chelsea and Manchester City, suggesting they’re better against the better sides. 

But with the chances Wolves give up, they should win against a struggling side for once. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Brighton win (19/20 with Betway)

Over 2.5 goals (5/6 with 10bet)

Both teams to score: Yes (15/19 with Matchbook)

Brentford vs Manchester City betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 4:30pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

The data is predicting a high scoring game and understandably so. Both teams have scored in five of Brentford’s six league games this season, the joint-most in the division (alongside Brighton).

The Bees are also joint-top of the standings for matches featuring at least three goals, again with five from six. Manchester City are only one behind them. 

Both meetings met these criteria last season. City won 2-1 at home before squandering a two-goal lead in a 2-2 draw in west London. The visitors are rightly favourites but won’t have it all their own way.

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Manchester City win and both teams to score (2/1 with William Hill)

Over 3.5 goals (13/10 with Mr.Play)

Erling Haaland to score first (11/4 with Highbet)

03/10/2025

Bournemouth vs Fulham betting tips

When: Friday 3rd October, 8pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

The data for our first match is pointing towards a win for Bournemouth. However, the expected goal numbers for their last two games said the same thing and they drew both times. They aren’t scoring enough to be reliable, finding the net eight times in their first six matches.

Where they have an advantage here is that they have two wins and a draw at home. Fulham’s away form has been far less impressive with just one point from three matches. Bournemouth have let us down the last two weeks but third time’s the charm, right?

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Bournemouth win (10/11 with Ladbrokes)

Bournemouth win and over 2.5 goals (39/20 with 10bet)

Under 9.5 corners (13/10 with Coral)

Leeds vs Tottenham betting tips

When: Saturday 4th October, 12:30pm

Where to watch: TNT Sports

The data predicts Tottenham will win but a closer look shows their advantage in the goal projection is just 0.22. It’s nothing.

The form book leans slightly towards Leeds too. They won at Wolves then came within stoppage time of beating Bournemouth. In their last three league and European matches, Spurs have come from behind to draw with Brighton, Wolves and Bodoe/Glimt. 

They went two goals down in the first and third of those matches and would’ve lost to Wolves without a 94th minute goal.

If Leeds can keep this tight, they can get a positive result. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Draw no bet: Leeds (Evens with Betfred)

Under 2.5 goals (9/11 with Kwiff)

Mohammed Kudus to score anytime (7/2 with Betway)

Arsenal vs West Ham betting tips

When: Saturday 4th October, 3pm

Where to watch: N/A

Arsenal are the hottest favourites this weekend. The form guide alone explains that, even without the detailed data prediction we’ve got here. 

If there is any hope for West Ham then it lies in the head-to-head record. They have won their last two visits to the Emirates Stadium, keeping a clean sheet each time. It says everything for the club that they were each under a different manager and the Hammers will have a new gaffer once again.

What to expect of the Hammers under Nuno Espirito Santo? Well they should tighten them up. His style should tilt the stats a little more in their favour than the prediction, but it’s hard to look past Arsenal winning relatively easily. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Under 2.5 goals (7/5 with 10bet)

Arsenal win to nil (4/5 with Bet442)

Handicap: Arsenal -1 (7/12 with 7bet)

Manchester United vs Sunderland betting tips

When: Saturday 4th October, 3pm

Where to watch: N/A

This is the most fascinating fixture of the weekend. The data suggests Manchester United will win. They’re hosting a side that finished last season with five straight defeats in the Championship. 

Yet only the most optimistic (or should that be deluded) of United fans will think that they’ll beat Sunderland with ease. The home side are just so unreliable. They needed a last-minute penalty to beat a Burnley team that haven’t looked as good as Sunderland this season. 

United will win in all likelihood but the prices for the Black Cats are too good not to consider. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Both teams to score: Yes (4/5 with Ladbrokes)

Double chance: Sunderland/Draw (17/10 with Betway)

Over 4.5 bookings (7/5 with 7bet)

Chelsea vs Liverpool betting tips

When: Saturday 4th October, 5:30pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

These teams have played out a few goalless draws in the last three years. However, the prediction is for plenty of goalmouth action.

READ: Chelsea vs Liverpool - big match breakdown and best value tips

There has been plenty of evidence as to why, with both sides displaying chaotic defending in recent weeks. Chelsea have had a man sent off in each of their last two league games, defeats to Manchester United and Brighton. 

Liverpool have kept a full complement of players but have been making far too many defensive errors. Even without Cole Palmer, the home side shouldn’t lack goalscoring chances.  

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (4/5 with Coral)

Liverpool win (7/5 with Matchbook)

Over 3.5 goals (13/10 with Mr.Play)

Aston Villa vs Burnley betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 2pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

It has taken longer than anyone would have expected but Aston Villa are up and running for the season. They beat Bologna 1-0 and Fulham 3-1 in their last two matches at Villa Park.

Their Europa League trip to Feyenoord on Thursday has given them less time to prepare for this match than Burnley. The Clarets’ away form has been poor, though, with three defeats by an aggregate score line of 11-3.

This will likely be closer than their 5-1 thumping at Manchester City last weekend, but not close enough for Burnley. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Aston Villa win and both teams to score (23/10 with Highbet)

Ollie Watkins to score any time (23/20 with William Hill)

Corner Handicap: Aston Villa -2 (7/10 with William Hill)

Everton vs Crystal Palace betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 2pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

Crystal Palace will hope for better results at the Hill Dickenson Stadium than they got at Goodison Park. The data predicts this game to be close, and it likely will be. The Eagles have rarely been in such good form though. 

Everton’s good start to the season has dissipated too. They are winless in four in all competitions, with a loss to Wolves (in the Carabao Cup) and draw with West Ham particularly dispiriting. 

READ MORE: Who's in the top three in our Premier League prop betting charts this week? 

As Palace are on the joint-longest unbeaten run in their history, they have had few such worries for months. That run will end but it doesn’t feel especially likely here. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Crystal Palace win (19/10 with Coral)

Over 2.5 goals (23/20 with MrLuck)

Highest scoring half: 2nd (6/5 with Betfred)

Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 2pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

This could be the feistiest game of the weekend. Nottingham Forest have collected 16 yellow cards and one red across their last six visits to St. James’ Park. The data is predicting 4.11 cards but it feels safer to go higher than lower.

Match referee Peter Bankes is among the Premier League’s most card-heavy officials. He averages four yellows per game so could easily go for more here.

The result is hard to predict. Newcastle are finding it hard to score in the league while Ange Postecoglou is struggling to get a tune out of Nottingham Forest. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Over 4.5 cards (4/5 with MrLuck)

Under 2.5 goals (21/20 with Betway)

Both teams to score: No (21/20 with Spreadex)

Wolves vs Brighton betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 2pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

Wolves came within a minute or two of a win at Tottenham last weekend. Joao Palhinha’s late equaliser leaves them with just one point. It’s going to be a long season. 

Brighton’s form has been patchy, as they have two in each of the win, draw and loss columns. Their victories have come against Chelsea and Manchester City, suggesting they’re better against the better sides. 

But with the chances Wolves give up, they should win against a struggling side for once. 

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Brighton win (19/20 with Betway)

Over 2.5 goals (5/6 with 10bet)

Both teams to score: Yes (15/19 with Matchbook)

Brentford vs Manchester City betting tips

When: Sunday 5th October, 4:30pm

Where to watch: Sky Sports

The data is predicting a high scoring game and understandably so. Both teams have scored in five of Brentford’s six league games this season, the joint-most in the division (alongside Brighton).

The Bees are also joint-top of the standings for matches featuring at least three goals, again with five from six. Manchester City are only one behind them. 

Both meetings met these criteria last season. City won 2-1 at home before squandering a two-goal lead in a 2-2 draw in west London. The visitors are rightly favourites but won’t have it all their own way.

FIRST’s expert Premier League predictions

Manchester City win and both teams to score (2/1 with William Hill)

Over 3.5 goals (13/10 with Mr.Play)

Erling Haaland to score first (11/4 with Highbet)

26/09/2025

Saturday

12:30PM

Brentford vs Manchester United betting tips

The weekend starts with a difficult match to forecast. The data says we should be all over a Brentford win, whereas their form gives few grounds for optimism.

But then you never know what you’ll get from Manchester United either. With three of the four meetings in west London seeing at least four goals and Brentford avoiding defeat in the same number, it should be entertaining at least.

Scoreline prediction

Brentford 2-2 Manchester United (10/1 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Double chance Brentford and over 2.5 goals (23/12 with Spreadex)

15:00PM

Chelsea vs Brighton betting tips

Chelsea welcome what is effectively their feeder club to Stamford Bridge this week. It’s rarely dull when the Blues face Brighton.

The same is true for the Seagulls in general lately. Their recent results include a 2-1 win against Manchester City, a loss by the same score at Bournemouth and a 2-2 draw with Spurs last time out. 

They also amassed 2.4 expected goals in their 2-0 defeat at Everton. It’s the most a team has had without scoring since before the start of last season.

Scoreline prediction

Chelsea 2-1 Brighton (6/1 with Highbet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (10/11 with Coral)

Crystal Palace vs Liverpool betting tips

The Community Shield clash between these teams ended 2-2 last time. That level of goals is an exception rather than the rule when Crystal Palace face Liverpool.

Only one of the last five league meetings saw three goals, and that only thanks to a 91st minute strike. None of Palace’s four matches at Selhurst Park this season have seen more than two either. 

Liverpool, who also lead the way in the EFL Cup betting odds after advancing to the fourth round, might just find a way…again. 

Scoreline prediction

Crystal Palace 0-1 Liverpool (9/1 with Matchbook)

FIRST’s top tip:

Under 2.5 goals (11/10 with Betfred)

Leeds vs Bournemouth betting tips

This column backed Bournemouth to win last week but they couldn’t find the breakthrough in their goalless draw with Newcastle. We’re going for the same tip again though.

The Cherries have won at Tottenham and gave Liverpool a fright at Anfield already this season. While Leeds won at Wolves last weekend, they have mustered just one (penalty) goal at home in 2025/26. It’s time to repay the faith, Bournemouth. 

Scoreline prediction

Leeds 0-2 Bournemouth (10/1 with Bet442)

FIRST’s top tip:

Bournemouth win (6/4 with Betway)

Manchester City vs Burnley betting tips

Burnley managed to score in the 93rd minute on their last visit to the Etihad Stadium. Even though they had conceded three goals, that made it a good trip by their standards.

The Clarets’ preceding five away games against Manchester City included three 5-0 losses and a 6-0. Having offered next to nothing with home advantage against Liverpool, a home win to nil looks inevitable. 

Scoreline prediction

Manchester City 4-0 Burnley (9/1 with 7bet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Manchester City win to nil (19/20 with William Hill)

17:30PM

Nottingham Forest vs Sunderland betting tips

It will be fascinating to see how Chris Wood fits into Ange Postecoglou’s vision for Nottingham Forest. The target man is goalless in his last four Premier League appearances.

However, no other player in the division has had as many shots in the box without scoring in that period. While Sunderland have been resolute, Wood scored in all three home games against the promoted sides last season. 

Scoreline prediction

Nottingham Forest 2-1 Sunderland (43/5 with Matchbook)

FIRST’s top tip:

Chris Wood to score any time (29/20 with Ladbrokes)

Here’s more: FIRST’s weekly acca tips including big Manchester bangers

20:00PM 

Tottenham vs Wolves betting tips

Wolves have won four of their last five matches against Tottenham. You can get very good odds if you think they’ll pick up another three points on Saturday night. 

It’s impossible to make that case given their start to 2025/26 though. While their away defeats have both been 1-0 this season, Wolves have lost more Premier League games featuring at least three goals than any other side across the last 38 match weeks. 

Scoreline prediction

Tottenham 3-1 Wolves (36/5 with Kwiff)

FIRST’s top tip:

Tottenham win and over 2.5 goals (23/20 with 10bet)

Sunday

14:00PM

Aston Villa vs Fulham betting tips

Can Aston Villa bust out of their funk? They have a good home record against Fulham, so perhaps they can. 

But they also had Bologna in the Europa League on Thursday night. While Villa eked out a 1-0 win, it was far from convincing. Given their poor record following European games last term, a positive result for Fulham looks distinctly possible.

Scoreline prediction

Aston Villa 0-2 Fulham (14/1 with Highbet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Draw No Bet: Fulham (13/10 with Spreadex)

16:30PM

Newcastle vs Arsenal betting tips

This is a massive match for Arsenal. If Liverpool win at Palace, the Gunners will be eight points off the title pace at kick off. Mikel Arteta’s side don’t have a great record at Newcastle, losing their previous three visits (and four of the last five) without scoring. 

READ: Newcastle vs Arsenal match preview and best bets

But they’ve only conceded once in their three away games in league or Europe this term, with the Magpies already having suffered two home losses. 

Scoreline prediction

Newcastle  0-2 Arsenal (8/1 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Arsenal win (23/20 with Ladbrokes)

Monday

20:00PM

Everton vs West Ham betting tips

As West Ham have a horrendous record for defending corners, Everton boss David Moyes will relish welcoming his former club to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Even if the Hammers can tighten up, several goals look inevitable in the Monday night match for one simple reason: every West Ham match this season has paid out on over 2.5 goals. With Everton creating plenty of chances this season there’s no reason that should change. 

Scoreline prediction

Everton 2-1 West Ham (7/1 with Coral)

FIRST’s top tip:

Over 2.5 goals (Evens with William Hill)

Odds correct at the time of writing.

19/09/2025

Liverpool vs Everton betting tips

While Everton have started the season well, it’s hard to imagine them doing anything other than trying to frustrate Liverpool at Anfield first and foremost. It’s in David Moyes’ big game DNA.

The last four Merseyside derbies at the ground have seen just one of their seven goals in the first half. The Reds usually find a way to win, which is debated in our full match breakdown, but it takes time in this grudge match for local bragging rights. 

Scoreline prediction

Liverpool 2-1 Everton (13/2 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Highest scoring half: second (11/10 with Spreadex)

Brighton vs Tottenham betting tips

The last five meetings of Brighton and Tottenham have ended with the following score lines: 2-1, 4-2, 2-1, 3-2 and 1-4. Embrace the chaos.

That should be reason enough to back our top tip. But we can also add that Brighton have seen the joint-most matches with this outcome in the last 38 Premier League match weeks, including the previous two. 

Scoreline prediction

Brighton 1-2 Tottenham (17/2 with Highbet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (10/11 with Ladbrokes)

Burnley vs Nottingham Forest betting tips

If Nuno Espirito Santo was still in charge of Nottingham Forest, it would be tempting to make a 0-0 draw the top tip here. While they should be more open under Ange Postecoglou, the evolution will take time. 

Burnley nearly held Liverpool to a goalless draw last weekend. Having had just 10 shots in total across their two home games, it’s hard to see them scoring. 

Scoreline prediction

Burnley 0-2 Nottingham Forest (12/1 with Matchbook)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score: No (11/10 with Betfred)

West Ham vs Crystal Palace betting tips

West Ham’s only win in their last 10 home matches came against a Leicester City side which now reside in the Championship. 

Their only other London Stadium victory under Graham Potter was a 3-2 win over Fulham in spite of the Hammers only having four shots. 

The venue has also been far more favourable for Crystal Palace, who are unbeaten there since 2018 with three wins in the six matches. West Ham’s form suggests the Eagles should fly high in east London once again.

Scoreline prediction

West Ham 0-2 Crystal Palace (9/1 with Bet442)

FIRST’s top tip:

Crystal Palace win (144/100 with 10Bet)

Wolves vs Leeds betting tips

If not a big match based on history, bottom side Wolves welcoming a newly promoted side to Molineux is huge for them. This has the dreaded ‘must win’ tag attached for Vitor Pereira’s side.

Leeds United’s form suggests it will be a grind of a game. Excluding the thumping they took at Arsenal leaves just two goals in their other three matches: a penalty and an own goal. 

Scoreline prediction

Wolves 1-0 Leeds (13/2 with 7bet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score: No (10/11 with Spreadex)

Manchester United vs Chelsea betting tips

Manchester United and Chelsea have delivered some high-scoring matches in the last few years. United won 4-1 at home in 2023 before the Blues responded with a 4-3 victory at Stamford Bridge last year. 

Chelsea have been in entertaining form on the road this season too, with a 5-1 win at West Ham. a 2-2 draw with Brentford and a 3-1 loss in Munich. This could be a cracker. 

Scoreline prediction

Manchester Utd 1-3 Chelsea (56/5 with Kwiff)

FIRST’s top tip:

Over 3.5 goals (7/5 with 10Bet)

Fulham vs Brentford betting tips

This west London derby is usually close. Only one of the last six has been settled by more than a single goal.

That was a 3-0 win for Brentford at Craven Cottage in 2023. They also led the corresponding fixture until the 92nd minute last season so an away win looks like a good value option here. As the Bees can’t be entirely trusted, take a safer selection. 

Scoreline prediction

Fulham 1-2 Brentford (10/1 with Coral)

FIRST’s top tip:

Draw no bet: Brentford (13/8 with Betfred)

Sunday

Bournemouth vs Newcastle betting tips

Both of these teams have recovered from 2-0 down against the champions this season. One has looked better in their other matches, though, and it is Bournemouth.

They have beaten Wolves, Tottenham and Brighton whereas Newcastle have mustered a single goal across their other three matches. 

They haven’t conceded any either, in fairness. The Cherries hard-running side should have too much for them here, though, especially as the Magpies played Barcelona on Thursday night in the Champions League. 

Scoreline prediction

Bournemouth 2-0 Newcastle (12/1 with 7bet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Bournemouth win (7/4 with Coral)

Sunderland vs Aston Villa betting tips

Aston Villa have yet to score a league goal this season. As positively as Sunderland have started this season, as a newly promoted side they will surely offer opportunities for Unai Emery’s team to break their duck.

No player has amassed more expected goals in the 2025/26 Premier League without scoring than Ollie Watkins. If anyone can get Villa’s season up and running, it should be him. 

Scoreline prediction

Sunderland 1-1 Aston Villa (5/1 with Highbet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Ollie Watkins to score anytime (7/4 with Betway)

Arsenal vs Manchester City betting tips

The Champions League fixtures this week have given Arsenal an extra two days to prepare for this huge match. The tight turnaround makes a difficult match even tougher for Manchester City.

While they won’t lose this fixture by the 5-1 score line they suffered last season, City have already conceded twice to Brighton and Tottenham. As Arsenal are better than either of them, they should score two as well. 

Scoreline prediction

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester City (13/2 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Total home goals: over 1.5 (17/20 with Coral)

11/09/2025

Saturday

Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest betting tips

With Nottingham Forest deciding to pivot from the dour, deep defensive line of Nuno Espirito Santo to the gung-ho approach of Ange Postecoglou, it’s hard to know how this will pan out. 

A shift of that magnitude should lead to uncertainty at first. Arsenal won their four home meetings with Forest in the last six years with the game seeing at least three goals every time, so that’s a decent starting point. 

Scoreline prediction

Arsenal 3-0 Nottingham Forest (13/2 with Highbet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Arsenal win and over 2.5 goals (21/20 with Ladbrokes)

Bournemouth vs Brighton betting tips

Measured on expected points from the opening three games, this is the match of the weekend. 

Brighton have the better record than Bournemouth on the underlying numbers despite being lower in the table. They also won five of their last six meetings with the Cherries, two of the previous three on the road.

The Seagulls squandered 2.4 expected goals, which can be a good base to make your weekend bets, when losing 2-0 at Everton. The same could easily happen (the issue has hindered Brighton for years) but they look good value for a positive result.

Scoreline prediction

Bournemouth 1-2 Brighton (23/2 with Matchbook)

FIRST’s top tip:

Draw no bet: Brighton (11/10 with Spreadex)

Crystal Palace vs Sunderland betting tips

Sunderland won their last three matches at Selhurst Park by an aggregate score of 8-1. It’s irrelevant as the last was in 2017 but they have more chance of avoiding defeat than bookmakers think. 

READ: Check out our 5/1 weekly acca - including Chelsea and Liverpool!

Crystal Palace have drawn four of their six matches in all competitions in 2025/26. Fredrikstad are rated by Opta as League One standard and they only lost 1-0 on aggregate to the Eagles. 

Backing Sunderland with a goal head start is a value play rather than a certainty but it feels plausible.

Scoreline prediction

Crystal Palace 1-1 Sunderland (6/1 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Handicap: Sunderland +1 (5/4 with Betway)

Everton vs Aston Villa betting tips

The final four meetings of Everton and Aston Villa at Goodison Park saw just four goals in total. This should be rather more entertaining. 

Granted, Unai Emery’s boys have yet to get off the mark this season. But their barren run can’t last forever while only three teams have scored more Premier League goals than Everton in 2025/26.

Scoreline prediction

Everton 2-1 Aston Villa (15/2 with Bet442)

FIRST’s top tip:

Over 2.5 goals (11/10 with Betfred)

Fulham vs Leeds betting tips

This is a classic early season game that is tricky to predict. Leeds got thumped 5-0 at Arsenal in their one away match yet have a better expected goal difference for the season than Fulham.

They in turn will still be fuming about how their derby at Chelsea turned out, when the VAR robbed them of a goal. 

If we assume it should’ve been given, Fulham have scored and conceded in every game, so expect goals here. 

Scoreline prediction

Fulham 2-1 Leeds (17/2 with 7bet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (7/5 with Betway)

Newcastle vs Wolves betting tips

Two of the four teams without a victory clash at St James’ Park.

Newcastle have only scored when down to 10 men and will presumably give a debut to Nick Woltemade but Yoane Wissa will have to wait for his first appearance as a Magpie, nursing a knee injury he sustained on international duty.

Wolves, meanwhile, can parade their ‘let’s look at what you could have won’ forward in Jorgen Strand Larsen. Will he be fired up? Disgruntled?

With the visitors failing to score in three of their last four trips to Newcastle, this game doesn’t scream goals. 

Scoreline prediction

Newcastle 2-0 Wolves (37/10 with Kwiff)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score: No (5/6 with Spreadex)

West Ham vs Tottenham betting tips

The last three stages of this derby in east London ended in 1-1 draws. Tottenham took the lead in the first half (twice in the first 15 minutes) before West Ham recovered to earn a point each time.

While the Hammers will be heartened by a 3-0 win at Nottingham Forest, they have shown little fightback in adversity this season. If Spurs go in front they’ll probably win this time. 

Scoreline prediction

West Ham 1-3 Tottenham (12/1 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Tottenham win (114/100 with 10Bet)

Brentford vs Chelsea betting tips

Brentford have a weird Premier League record in this derby: three wins from four at Stamford Bridge but no victories at home.

They are unlikely to win this game either. But they will probably score as they are one of only three top flight sides who did so in each of the first three match weeks. 

Scoreline prediction

Brentford 1-2 Chelsea (13/2 with Bet442)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (11/10 with Ladbrokes)

Sunday

Burnley vs Liverpool betting tips

Liverpool have enjoyed traveling to Burnley, winning their last four visits without conceding a goal. Their defence looked back to its best against Arsenal too.

Burnley might have beaten Sunderland in their last home game, but they only had seven shots against their fellow promoted side. The reigning champions should ease through this with minimum fuss.

Scoreline prediction

Burnley 0-2 Liverpool (37/5 with Matchbook)

Manchester City vs Manchester United betting tips

Manchester United needed a 97th minute penalty to beat Burnley last time out, yet they come into the derby ahead of Manchester City in the table. 

Pep Guardiola’s side have not been helped by their top two shooters underperforming against expected goals. That won’t remain the case for Erling Haaland for long. 

He has four goals in three Etihad stadium appearances against City’s crosstown rivals, plus he had the confidence boost of five against Moldova in midweek. 

Scoreline prediction

Manchester City 2-0 Manchester United (9/1 with 7Bet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Erling Haaland to score anytime (10/11 with Betway)

Chelsea vs Fulham betting tips

Having won 5-1 at West Ham last Friday, Chelsea have had a long time to prepare for their third consecutive London derby to start the season.

READ: Chelsea vs Fulham full betting preview, predictions and team news

Fulham have had a pair of 1-1 draws in the league. They won this fixture 2-1 last season but with Chelsea in form and the visitors busy with the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, a goal-heavy home win is the likely outcome. 

Scoreline prediction

Chelsea 2-1 Fulham (13/2 with Bet442)

FIRST’s top tip:

Chelsea win and over 2.5 goals (11/10 with MrLuck)

Manchester United vs Burnley betting tips

This is a minefield. Manchester United should win but you’d have thought that when they played League Two side Grimsby on Wednesday. 

You can’t trust them. Will they score several, or concede, or suffer an embarrassing result? Will Ruben Amorim quit at half time? Who knows. 

Burnley will have been buoyed by their victory over Sunderland last time out. As Ipswich, Southampton, West Ham and Wolves all scored at Old Trafford last season, there seems little reason the Clarets can’t too.

Scoreline prediction

Manchester United 2-1 Burnley (15/2 with 7bet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score: Yes (19/20 with Quickbet)

Sunderland vs Brentford betting tips

These teams played out a 3-3 draw when they last shared a division. If not quite so dramatic, we should see a few goals this time around. 

Both sides saw at least three in their home or away opener this season as appropriate here. As Brentford scored five goals in total at Southampton and four at Leicester, three at the Stadium of Light looks like the minimum. 

Scoreline prediction

Sunderland 1-2 Brentford (15/2 with Highbet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Over 2.5 goals (6/5 with Matchbook)

Tottenham vs Bournemouth betting tips

This is a test for Thomas Frank’s Tottenham. Not because they can’t win the match but because Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs had numerous rollercoaster matches with Bournemouth. 

How much have Tottenham changed? Has Frank calmed the chaos?

It looks that way so far. But here are the score lines for the last five clashes between these teams in north London: 2-2, 3-1, 2-3, 3-2 and 5-0. With Spurs scoring freely and Bournemouth a threat on the break, this should be another belter. 

Scoreline prediction

Tottenham 3-1 Bournemouth (10/1 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Over 3.5 goals (27/20 with 7bet)

Wolves vs Everton betting tips

Wolves put three goals past West Ham in the League Cup in midweek, which will have been a relief after drawing a blank in their first two league games.

Everton are made of sterner stuff, though, and are hardly a goal machine themselves. One team failed to score in three of the last four clashes, so a 0-0 here wouldn’t be a shock. 

Scoreline prediction

Wolves 0-1 Everton (7/1 with Coral)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score: No (9/11 with Kwiff)

Leeds vs Newcastle betting tips

Newcastle had a very good record at bottom half sides last season, only losing at Fulham. 

But without Alexander Isak (sulk), Anthony Gordon (suspension) and injury doubts for key men like Joelinton and Sandro Tonali, it could be a very different story.

Leeds were impressive against Everton, and while Newcastle are a stronger team, the version starting here might not be better than the Blues by that much. 

Scoreline prediction

Leeds 2-1 Newcastle (10/1 with Ladbrokes)

FIRST’s top tip:

Draw No Bet: Leeds (3/2 with Bet442)

Love football? Find the best football betting sites and bet with welcome bonuses today.

Brighton vs Manchester City betting tips

It’s too soon into the season for anyone to be due a goal. One man skirting around that possibility is Omar Marmoush though. 

Nobody playing this weekend amassed more expected goals without scoring across the first two match weeks than the Egyptian. 

Marmoush netted when Brighton visited Manchester City in March too and we can add in an assist to increase our chances of a winner. 

Scoreline prediction

Brighton 0-2 Manchester City (23/2 with Matchbook)

FIRST’s top tip:

Omar Marmoush to score or assist (5/6 with Highbet)

Nottingham Forest vs West Ham betting tips

The aggregate score across West Ham’s previous four games at the City Ground is 11-0 to Nottingham Forest. That does not bode well for Graham Potter’s job prospects. 

If we break those goals down between first half and second, the totals are 7-4 in favour of the latter. 

There have been more second half goals in four of the last five meetings with the other a tie. This could take a while to get going, 

Scoreline prediction

Nottingham Forest 2-0 West Ham (6/1 with MrLuck)

FIRST’s top tip:

Highest scoring half: second (21/20 with Coral)

Liverpool vs Arsenal betting tips

Arsenal have a miserable recent record at Anfield, last winning there in 2012. But while they’re on a run of 15 without a victory at Liverpool, they scored in 11 of those games.

Go in depth - Liverpool vs Arsenal full match breakdown

With the Reds having had 4-2 and 3-2 wins so far this season, goals at both ends look inevitable. If 10-man Newcastle can score two set play goals against Liverpool, you can be sure Arsenal will get one. 

Scoreline prediction

Liverpool 2-1 Arsenal (107/20 with Kwiff)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (21/20 with Ladbrokes)

Aston Villa vs Crystal Palace betting tips

Aston Villa have yet to score in the league this season, while Crystal Palace’s two games have seen just two goals, one in either direction.

Nonetheless, these teams bring goals out of each other. The last six meetings averaged four goals with both teams scoring in the last three at Villa Park. They can’t keep being wasteful this season, can they?

Scoreline prediction

Aston Villa 2-1 Crystal Palace (15/2 with Quickbet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (23/20 with Betfred)

28/08/2025

23/08/2025

West Ham vs Chelsea betting tips

The aggregate score line across the last three editions of this London derby reads 10-1 to Chelsea. Enzo Maresca’s world champions will be confident of another big win on Friday night.

Granted, they didn’t look much like scoring last weekend. But at least they didn’t lose 3-0 to a newly promoted side, eh, Hammers fans? 

Scoreline prediction

West Ham 0-3 Chelsea (11/1 with Coral)

FIRST’s top tip:

Chelsea win and over 2.5 goals (27/20 with MrLuck)

Manchester City vs Tottenham betting tips

Tottenham have an absurdly strong record against Manchester City. There were whispers last weekend that Pep Guardiola’s side are back, but thumping a poor Wolves team doesn’t prove much of anything.

READ: Man City vs Tottenham full betting tips, predictions and team news

Which is not to say you should go all in on Thomas Frank’s new look Spurs. As they have only lost one of the clashes at the Etihad Stadium by more than one goal (winning two of them), a handicap bet looks the smartest choice.

Scoreline prediction

Manchester City 2-2 Tottenham (12/1 with Ladbrokes)

FIRST’s top tip:

Handicap: Tottenham +1 (11/10 with 7bet)

Bournemouth vs Wolves betting tips

Wolves have a very good record at Bournemouth. It has been aided by the Cherries having a man sent off in three of the previous five clashes at the Vitality Stadium though.

READ: What is 1x2 betting and how does it work?

Assuming they keep 11 players on the pitch, their attack (which looked electric at times at Anfield last week) should have been too much for Wolves. 

Scoreline prediction

Bournemouth 2-0 Wolves (9/1 with Spreadex)

FIRST’s top tip:

Bournemouth win (5/6 with Betway)

Brentford vs Aston Villa betting tips

The data from last season screams at you to bet on Brentford. Them being 3-0 down at Nottingham Forest before half time last week rather undermines that though. 

Want more? Get live Premier League match odds and bookmaker welcome bonuses

While the last meeting ended 1-0 to Aston Villa, the preceding three all saw both teams scoring with an average of 4.3 goals. The Bees’ defence looks very capable of coughing up a few more against the Villans. 

Scoreline prediction

Brentford 1-2 Aston Villa (15/2 with Betway)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (49/50 with Mr.Play)

Burnley vs Sunderland betting tips

Two of the last three meetings of these former Championship teams ended 0-0, as did three of the previous six. The exception in the most recent trio was an absolute goal fest. It ended 1-0 to Sunderland.

The Black Cats scored three times last week so might be ready to unleash hell upon Burnley. However, as their goals all came from chances valued at 0.04 expected goals, rein your entertainment hopes in here.

Scoreline prediction

Burnley 0-1 Sunderland (15/2 with Betfred)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score: No (81/100 with Highbet)

Arsenal vs Leeds

This is a chance for Arsenal to lay down a statement of title intent. They will want a better performance from Viktor Gyokeres than they got at Old Trafford last week too.

Fancy a weekend acca? Check out this week's four-fold here! 

It’s hard to know how Leeds will fare in a game of this difficulty, but they conceded four in two of their three trips to the Emirates Stadium in their previous stint in the Premier League. 

Arsenal won matches featuring at least four goals against all of the bottom three last season too. 

Scoreline prediction

Arsenal 3-1 Leeds (9/1 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Arsenal win and over 3.5 goals (13/8 with Matchbook)

Crystal Palace vs Nottingham Forest betting tips

The ‘we should be in the Europa League’ derby will be feistier than its title is catchy. 

IMAGO Nottingham Forest man Ryan Yates and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi scrap for possession.

Whether the atmosphere is truly ugly and whether that helps or hampers Crystal Palace remains to be seen.

LEARN MORE: Short-priced value picks: Are they worth it and understanding strategy behind it

Nottingham Forest had the third best away record in the Premier League last season and have done well at Selhurst Park in recent times.

But the xG data says Palace should be a much shorter price. Lord knows they’ll be fired up too.

Scoreline prediction

Crystal Palace 2-1 Nottingham Forest (19/2 with Matchbook)

FIRST’s top tip:

Crystal Palace win (5/4 with Bet442)

Everton vs Brighton betting tips

This being Everton’s first game at their new home makes this impossible to predict. Brighton lost none of their final four visits to Goodison Park so will be sad that the Blues have moved house. 

Meetings in the last half decade have featured scorelines including 4-2, 2-3, 1-4, 1-5 and 3-0, so expect goals. It would be very David Moyes and Everton to christen their new stadium with a 0-0 though. 

Scoreline prediction

Everton 2-1 Brighton (10/1 with 7bet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Over 2.5 goals (15/16 with Kwiff)

Fulham vs Manchester United betting tips

As well as Manchester United played against Arsenal last Sunday, they lost. Ruben Amorim could do with three points from a Fulham side that hasn’t yet bought or sold anyone of note this summer. 

United have signed two forwards with good records against them. Either Bryan Mbeumo or Matheus Cunha is a decent goal scorer bet option, but the latter leads the Craven Cottage goal count 3-2 so we’ll take him.

Scoreline prediction

Fulham 1-2 Manchester United (7/1 with MrLuck)

FIRST’s top tip:

Matheus Cunha to score any time (21/10 with Spreadex)

Newcastle vs Liverpool betting tips

The player on everyone’s mind ahead of this game won’t even feature. The Alexander Isak saga is undoubtedly the story of the summer.

Under the lights with an electric atmosphere, this game should be chaos on wheels going downhill fast. The fixture ended 3-3 last season, following a 4-2 Liverpool win earlier in 2024. Both were evening games. 

The Reds won 4-2 last week too. With Newcastle out for blood, there’ll be goals, goals, goals. 

Scoreline prediction

Newcastle 2-2 Liverpool (10/1 with Coral)

FIRST’s top tip:

Over 3.5 goals (67/50 with Highbet)

15/08/2025

Liverpool vs Bournemouth betting tips

Liverpool should be fun to watch. They beat Athletic Club 3-2 in their last friendly before but losing to Crystal Palace on penalties in the Community Shield last weekend after a 2-2 draw in normal time. 

READ: Liverpool vs Bournemouth full betting tips and predictions 

The Reds have a strong record against Bournemouth at Anfield, scoring 26 times in the eight Premier League meetings. With Liverpool joint-top of the division for wins in which both teams scored last season, this should be an entertaining opener to 2025/26.

Scoreline prediction

Liverpool 3-1 Bournemouth (8/1 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Liverpool win and both teams to score (4/3 with 7bet)

Aston Villa vs Newcastle betting tips

Aston Villa beat Newcastle 4-1 at home in April to maintain their strong record at Villa Park against the Magpies. 

Eddie Howe’s side have endured a miserable summer, with a failure to land targets, which is compounded by Alexander Isak’s desire to leave. 

IMAGO Aston Villa clash with Newcastle United on Saturday lunchtime in the opening match of the season

They’ve lost four and drawn two of their last six friendlies so can’t be in a confident mood either. Newcastle’s woes should continue in the Saturday lunch time kick off. 

Scoreline prediction

Aston Villa 2-0 Newcastle (31/2 with Matchbook)

FIRST’s top tip:

Aston Villa to win (21/20 with Kwiff)

Brighton vs Fulham betting tips

These clubs were joint-top in the 2024/25 Premier League for matches in which both teams scored and there were at least three goals. Fulham won 3-1 at Craven Cottage before Brighton replied with a 2-1 home win.

Whether pre-season form matters is questionable, but these clubs both saw our selection pay out in two of their last three friendlies. Their goal-heavy form looks like continuing.

Scoreline prediction

Brighton 2-1 Fulham (6/1 with Highbet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (Evens with Coral)

Sunderland vs West Ham betting tips

Last season’s league table suggests Sunderland will have few easier home games this term. The atmosphere will be electric too. 

After the disappointing campaign West Ham suffered, you can’t be confident they’ll win either. But it’s a big leap to expect the Championship play-off winner to beat an established Premier League club.

Goals look safer. Last season there were at least four in three of the Hammers’ away matches against the bottom four, which is surely where Sunderland will end up. 

Scoreline prediction

Sunderland 1-2 West Ham (8/1 with Betway)

FIRST’s top tip:

Over 2.5 goals (17/20 with Bet442)

Tottenham vs Burnley betting tips

A match that also features in our Top of the Props betting tips this weekend, The most damning fact from Tottenham’s 2024/25 league campaign was that they didn’t top a mini-league of the bottom four teams. 

Burnley are favourites for the drop so this will indicate whether Thomas Frank can turn that dreadful record around. 

Spurs may be tired, mentally and physically, from the Super Cup, but as they were 2-0 up on PSG after 84 minutes it’s hard to see the Clarets offering much resistance.

Scoreline prediction

Tottenham 3-0 Burnley (8/1 with Betfred)

FIRST’s top tip:

Tottenham win and over 2.5 goals (19/20 with Ladbrokes)

Wolves vs Manchester City betting tips

As much as Wolves improved under Vitor Pereira, they still finished 16th and have since lost Matheus Cunha and Rayan Ait Nouri.

The latter joined Manchester City, so will likely collect his first league win with them at Molineux. Ait Nouri is unlikely to score though, with Erling Haaland inevitably the goal markets favourite.

He only finished one shy of being the Club World Cup’s joint-top scorer despite City’s disappointing campaign. Haaland once scored four against Wolves and can get one here. 

Scoreline prediction

Wolves 0-2 Manchester City (13/2 with Mr.Luck)

FIRST’s top tip:

Erling Haaland to score any time (4/5 with Betfred)

Chelsea vs Crystal Palace betting tips

The Club World Cup and Conference League champions host the FA Cup and Community Shield winners. There’s trophies aplenty at Stamford Bridge this weekend. 

Will the Blues’ summer exertions lead to a slow start? What is certain is Chelsea rattled in lots of goals in the USA, netting twice in five of their seven matches.

With Crystal Palace amassing four big chances against Liverpool at Wembley stadium last weekend there should be loads of goalmouth action.

Scoreline prediction

Chelsea 2-1 Crystal Palace (13/2 with Bet442)

FIRST’s top tip:

Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (21/20 with Coral)

Nottingham Forest vs Brentford betting tips

Nottingham Forest ended 2024/25 in abysmal form. Only five clubs took fewer points from their final five games, with one of those matches a 2-0 home defeat by Brentford.

The Bees have lost their manager and star player Bryan Mbeumo since then though. With Yoane Wissa also looking to leave, Brentford are unlikely to score as often this term. 

As Nuno Espirito Santo lives for low-scoring games, with xG playing a big part for bettors, it might not be the best watch for the neutral. 

Scoreline prediction

Nottingham Forest 1-1 Brentford (5/1 with 7bet)

FIRST’s top tip:

Under 2.5 goals (17/20 with Mr.Luck)

Manchester United vs Arsenal betting tips

The most fascinating game of the weekend. Has Ruben Amorim fixed any of Manchester United’s problems? Will Viktor Gyokeres unlock Arsenal’s, at-times, stodgy attack?

The answer to the former will influence the latter here. This head-to-head has delivered very poor fare in recent times.

The last four meetings saw just seven goals, without more than two in any of them. Arsenal’s last seven league wins at Old Trafford were all 1-0 so don’t expect much. 

Scoreline prediction

Manchester United 1-1 Arsenal (11/2 with Mr.Play)

FIRST’s top tip:

Under 2.5 goals (13/12 with Matchbook)

Leeds vs Everton betting tips

These sides couldn’t muster a pre-season victory between them this summer. What’s going to happen?

Considering Everton won three of their final four away games last season, it’s a little surprising Leeds are favourites. But then they were very strong at Elland Road in 2024/25.

Let’s sit on the fence. The previous two meetings at Leeds were draws with only one of the last six anywhere settled by more than one goal. Should be close. 

Scoreline prediction

Leeds 1-1 Everton (11/2 with Ladbrokes)

FIRST’s top tip:

Draw (9/4 with Highbet)

Responsible gambling with FIRST

You must be 18+ to gamble. Gambling is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. Our tips and advice help you enjoy gambling, but there is always a chance a bet or casino game can lose.

Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Stop betting if you are angry, emotional or under the influence of alcohol.

Warning signs of problem gambling: chasing losses, betting money needed for bills, or feeling unable to stop.

Need help? Visit our responsible sports betting page or our responsible casino gambling page, or contact the support organisations listed below if you're struggling to control your gambling:

Gamblers Anonymous UK

BeGambleAware

GAMSTOP

National Gambling Support Network

Gamcare

NHS National Gambling Clinic

Odds correct at the time of writing.